BETHEL – The day after Thanksgiving, 44 crafters and local-product producers will gather in the Bethel Inn Conference Center for Bethel’s Local Craft & Wares Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The doors will open at 9 a.m. The Bethel Inn Conference Center is located off Main Street, behind Northeast Bank. Free horse-drawn wagon rides through the village will be offered from 2 to 4 p.m. Interested riders should gather in front of the Library on the Common.

For more information on the fair or the upcoming Country Christmas, people can contact the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce, 824-2282 or www.bethelmaine.com.

Annual poster contest starts

AUGUSTA – The Maine Forest Service is holding its annual contest for fifth-graders, asking them to create posters on the theme “Trees are Terrific … and Energy Wise!”

John Rosenow, president of The National Arbor Day Foundation, said, “Through this contest, students have the opportunity to learn about the environmental benefits of trees and develop an appreciation of trees and what they provide to us.”

Teachers and home-schoolers in Maine can sign up by contacting Jan Ames Santerre, the contest coordinator. Requests may be made by sending an e-mail to Santerre at [email protected] or by calling 623-2371.

Teachers will receive free ecosystem curriculum materials including lesson plans, activities and contest information.

The deadline for submitting posters is March 11.

The Maine state winner will receive a $100 U.S. savings bond, and a tree planted in his or her honor at their school.

He or she will also be a finalist in the national competition.

Author signing books in Auburn

AUBURN – Scott Touchette of Rumford has written and published his second book, “Bethany’s Playground.” He will be at Waldenbooks in the Auburn Mall from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, for a book signing.